Running a holiday let

code-a-holic

I have no idea where to put this - have searched the forums for something simmilar but no joy!

My In laws own 2 cravans on a site in West Wales (25 miles from me). They live in one - which is essentially 2 caravns stuck together - but is now a chalet with slate roof, proper walls, gutted and re-buiolt inside to make a nice 3 bedroomed bungalow. The other is for family member s to stay in. The in laws have just bought a house in France and are moving there but want to let out the one they are currently in to holiday makers - and for me and my husband to run it. I dont work but juggle 3 under 4's - so think i can do this.

Have checked out the competition and this property is quite unique as its on a quiet site and has enlcosed gardfen/patio and is more of a bungalow than a carvan.
This is where i need some help.....we want to aim it at families and will kit it out accordingly. But my MIL is quite certain that a bond will need to be held during a stay i cant find any other property that does this. I feel it would put people off - and make more work for me. She wants the customers to give me £200 on arrival and they can have it back once inspected. To me this seems a bit crazy but she thinks if people want to stay in something like this they will agree! Also means i cant just leave a key - i would have to be there when people arrive - might be waiting hours and they cant leave until i get there. She also thinks that they electric meter should be read by me on arrival and on departure and then the customer pays then for it. Everyone else does it included.
If it is done her way woiuld we find our selves with no customers? I expect so but a couple of people in agreement would help my case!

hjb123

Hi,

Dont do a bond during the stay! We have a self catering holiday cottage and take a deposit when people book then the remainder of the fee a month before arrival. We dont take any money off them - they have already paid so why should they pay again! We dont even inspect the cottage until they have gone until we go and clean it out ready for the next family!

I would certainly say you would lose customers this way - it would be more like a boot camp or something - paying money on top of what you have already paid - and then having the spot inspected before you can leave!

With regards the electric - our prices include the bedding, heating (not that we need it at the moment) and electricity.

richardw

Are you going to accept payment by credit card? If so getting a bond is easy.
Energy is usually included in holiday lets. Just don't let them plug in too many electrical appliances.

code-a-holic

Thanks for that - exactly my feelings!

Will take payment in any shape and form - setting up a website too can do it all quickly and easily (hubby a web designer so a freebie!)